SANTA CLARA – Every week quarterback Nick Mullens remains as the 49ers’ starter brings with it different challenges.
When the NFC North-champion Chicago Bears come to Levi’s Stadium on Sunday, Mullens will be looking across the line of scrimmage at the chess pieces defensive coordinator Vic Fangio has arranged in meticulous fashion.
Chicago’s defense is reminiscent of the great ones Fangio controlled during his four seasons on Jim Harbaugh’s staff with the 49ers. The defense led the way to three consecutive trips ot the NFC Championship game, including one Super Bowl appearance.
The Bears’ defense is at the top of the NFL in the single-most important factor that determines wins and losses, while the 49ers rank at the bottom.